Crabby Appleton was a Los Angeles-based pop-rock band best remembered for their 1970 hit “Go Back.” Though their time in the spotlight was brief, their blend of rock, pop, and sunshine melodies captured the sound of the early ’70s. Led by singer-songwriter Michael Fennelly, the band had strong musical roots but couldn’t replicate their initial success.
Still, they left behind a respected debut album and a cult classic that continues to resonate with oldies and power-pop fans alike.
| Band Name | Crabby Appleton |
|---|---|
| Origin | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Years Active | 1969–1971 |
| Frontman | Michael Fennelly |
| Other Members | Hank Harvey (bass), Casey Foutz (keyboards), Felix “Flaco” Falcon (percussion), Phil Jones (drums) |
| Genres | Pop Rock, Power Pop, Psychedelic Rock |
| Record Label | Elektra Records |
| Major Hit | “Go Back” (#36 Billboard Hot 100, 1970) |
| Albums | Crabby Appleton (1970), Rotten to the Core (1971) |
| Post-Band Activities | Michael Fennelly – Solo career, worked with Steely Dan Phil Jones – Drummer for Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, session work |
Formation and Background
Crabby Appleton formed in Los Angeles in the late 1960s. The band’s founder, Michael Fennelly, was born on April 4, 1949, in New York. Before starting Crabby Appleton, Fennelly had been a key member of The Millennium, a sunshine pop band that recorded the critically admired but commercially overlooked album Begin in 1968.
After The Millennium disbanded, Fennelly began writing new material with a rock edge. He teamed up with four other musicians: Hank Harvey (bass), Casey Foutz (keyboards), Felix “Flaco” Falcon (percussion), and Phil Jones (drums). Originally performing under the name Stonehenge, the group eventually adopted the name Crabby Appleton—borrowed from a character in the Tom Terrific cartoon series.
With a new sound that blended melodic pop with hard-edged rock, the band quickly caught the attention of Elektra Records.
Breakthrough with “Go Back”
In 1970, Crabby Appleton released their self-titled debut album through Elektra Records. Produced by Don Gallucci, a former member of Don and the Goodtimes and the Kingsmen, the album showcased Fennelly’s songwriting and the band’s tight musicianship.
The lead single, “Go Back,” became an unexpected success. Driven by jangly guitars, catchy hooks, and Fennelly’s expressive vocals, the song reached #36 on the Billboard Hot 100. It stood out on radio playlists, offering something between the West Coast pop of The Byrds and the emerging singer-songwriter sound.
The album itself charted at #175 on the Billboard 200. While not a blockbuster, it demonstrated the band’s potential and drew positive critical attention.
Touring and Exposure
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Following their initial success, Crabby Appleton joined major concert lineups. They opened for some of the biggest acts of the era, including:
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The Doors
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Sly and the Family Stone
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The Guess Who
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ABBA (in early performances)
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George Carlin (as part of mixed comedy/music shows)
These appearances helped the band reach wider audiences. However, despite strong performances, they struggled to match the impact of “Go Back.”
Second Album: Rotten to the Core
Eager to follow up their debut, Crabby Appleton recorded their second album, Rotten to the Core, later in 1970. The title hinted at a more cynical tone, and the album leaned toward a heavier rock direction. Unfortunately, it didn’t resonate with critics or fans the way their debut had.
Sales were poor, and no singles from the album charted. Elektra’s promotional efforts were limited, and radio support was lacking. As momentum faded, the group disbanded not long after the album’s release.
What Happened After?
After Crabby Appleton split, its members pursued various paths in music.
Michael Fennelly
Fennelly launched a solo career. He released two solo albums:
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Lane Changer (1974) – Produced by Chris White of The Zombies, featuring guitar work from Jeff Beck.
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Stranger’s Bed (1975) – A softer, more introspective record.
While these albums didn’t chart, they earned praise for songwriting and production. Fennelly also collaborated with other artists over the years, including session work and contributions to albums by Steely Dan.
He eventually settled in Portland, Oregon, where he continues to write and record music independently.
Phil Jones
Drummer Phil Jones enjoyed one of the most successful post-Crabby Appleton careers. He joined Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, contributing to their hit albums and tours. He also performed with Roy Orbison and played on various recordings throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His drumming style, grounded and dynamic, earned him a reputation as a top session player.
Other Members
While Hank Harvey, Casey Foutz, and Felix Falcon didn’t achieve the same visibility, they remained active in the Los Angeles music scene for several years, working with smaller bands and contributing to local projects.
Legacy and Recognition
Though Crabby Appleton is largely known for “Go Back,” their music has gained renewed interest among collectors and music historians. Their debut album has been reissued several times on CD and digital platforms, often accompanied by critical reappraisals.
“Go Back” is now considered a hidden gem of early 1970s power pop. It appears on multiple oldies and one-hit wonder compilations. Its infectious melody and reflective lyrics have helped it endure, even as the band itself faded from public memory.
In retrospect, Crabby Appleton’s brief career reflected the challenges many bands faced in transitioning from the psychedelic 1960s to the more polished rock and pop of the 1970s. With better timing or promotion, they might have built a larger legacy.